In weight reduction treatments supplied over-the-counter, FDA laboratory testing indicated the presence of various harmful components. These components are sibutramine, fenproporex, fluoxetine, bumetanide, furosemide, phenytoin, rimonabant, cetilistat, and phenolphthalein (FDA, n.d.). Their application for weight loss is not recommended, and the result primarily originates as a side effect. For example, the active pharmaceutical component in Bumex, a prescription diuretic, is bumetanide (FDA, n.d.). The medicine Bumex includes a Boxed Warning because it can cause substantial fluid and electrolyte loss (FDA, n.d.). Another potential side effect of bumetanide treatment is an increase in uric acid levels.
There are various cautions to be followed while consuming bumetanide. People allergic to sulfonamides are prohibited from consuming bumetanide and furosemide. Taking bumetanide alongside digoxin and lithium, for example, may raise the risk of toxicity (FDA, n.d.). If consumers have normal blood pressure or are currently using an antihypertensive medicine, they may be at an increased risk of low blood pressure, fainting, and injury (FDA, n.d.). Consumers who are elderly or have weak renal function may be at a higher risk of adverse responses to the medicine.
Another drug that contains one such harmful ingredient is Lasix. It is a powerful diuretic accessible only by prescription to treat congestive heart failure, excessive blood pressure, and edema which contains the active pharmaceutical component furosemide (FDA, n.d.). Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance can result, with potassium, calcium, sodium, and magnesium being lost (Laguna, 2020). Dehydration, seizures, GI difficulties, renal damage, lethargy, collapse, and coma are all serious side effects of overdosing (Laguna, 2020). Therefore, the application of the drug for weight loss should not be followed. Other drugs also possess numerous negative effects if used improperly and for purposes not originally intended, such as weight loss. Consequently, before taking dietary supplements to treat obesity or other disorders, consumers need to consult with a certified doctor.
References
FDA. (n.d.). FDA’s initiative against Contaminated Weight Loss Products. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Web.
Laguna Treatment Hospital. (2020) What is Furosemide & What are the abuse risks?. Web.